Ford worked with Japanese automakers during recession to buoy suppliers, book says

Now this is interesting....


By Jaclyn Trop
The Detroit News

Ford Motor Co. worked with two Japanese automakers to keep their suppliers afloat during the recession, according to a book by Detroit News automotive reporter Bryce G. Hoffman that will be released March 13.

The secret alliance was part of a broader effort by Ford to shore up its supply base after the financial crisis of 2008 pushed many parts manufacturers to the brink of bankruptcy.

According to "American Icon: Alan Mulally and the Fight to Save Ford Motor Company" (Crown Business), Ford gathered an internal team during the financial collapse toward the end of 2008 to study its supplier base. Known as Project Quark, the study assessed which suppliers could be at risk of collapse if Ford's competitors went bankrupt or discontinued a vehicle model.

Ford monitored the situation of each of its critical suppliers in real time and took steps to support those that it deemed critical to its own operations. Ford also worked with Toyota Motor Corp. and Honda Motor Co. to support their supplier base by buying from each others' suppliers, according to Hoffman.

General Motor Corp. declined to participate over concerns of the arrangement's legality and their own restructuring efforts, Hoffman reported.

Ford's own antitrust attorneys "carefully vetted" each trade among Ford, Toyota and Honda to support their suppliers, according to the book.

Chrysler, which was then headed toward bankruptcy, did not participate.

With Ford Motor Co.'s cooperation, "American Icon" tells the behind-the-scenes account of the automaker's turnaround.

Project Quark is still alive "in the sense that we maintain a robust database of our supplier to see how they would be affected by a change in the industry," said Ford spokesman Todd Nissen.
"American Icon" will be excerpted in The Detroit News beginning March 12.

Source;
http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20120302/AUTO0102/203020408/1148/rss25

New Ford Mondeo-based on Capri?

Ford Focus Coupe 2014?

Ford coupe concept "Evo Concept" robbed the visitors of the IAA 2011 in Frankfurt breath. And we hit the Evo's design and painted from usonce again how awesome it would be if the Blessed Ford Capri would be celebrating a long overdue comeback. Granted, a new Ford coupein the Evo's design - that would be a bit optimistic. Similarly, thoughtprobably Theophilus Chin, who based on the new Ford Fusion / Ford Mondeo screwed together something more realistic 2013 Ford coupe version.

Although Theophilus apologized for its variation due to any lack of aggressiveness: its "Ford Capri" has succeeded beyond measure. Here, the design naturally benefits from the successful design of theMondeo-based. After Aston Martin coupe front end of the Mondeowould be extremely good.
Whatever the name, a new Ford coupe would, therefore, Ford Mondeo Ford Capri coupe or actually: with an adequate range of engines could be a competitor for Volkswagen Scirocco, Opel Astra or a higher class of vehicle created for the example of BMW's Coupe 4. The current1.6-liter Eco-Boost engine with 150 HP could mark the start of the coupe world. A diesel (as would be the 2-liter TDCi offering 163 hp)and the 182-horsepower Eco-Boost gasoline this might extend to a RSmodel with over 300 hp.

Ford's product strategy makes life difficult for impatientcontemporaries, however, if the new Ford Mondeo is celebrating the end of 2012 / early 2013's launch, probably possible coupe versionearlier than 2014 for roll-friendly Ford dealer.

[images: Theophiluschin.com]

Chevy Silverado "2012" | Super Bowl XLVI Ads | Chevrolet Commercial

Ha! Hilarious! I see that Ford is up in arms over the claims in this ad, take it easy, it's meant to be funny. Wow.

Ford sent a letter to NBC requesting the ad not run in the game. It also sent a letter to Chevy asking the automaker to pull the ad from the game, its websites and its Youtube channel. "Ford demands that Chevrolet immediately cease and desist from making any unsubstantiated and disparaging claims regarding Ford's pickup trucks." The letter warned Ford could take further actions. "If Chevrolet does not comply with the above terms prior to the start of the Super Bowl, then Ford will take all appropriate steps to enforce and protect its reputation."

Watch Ford Escape Hybrid SUV

 

The main theme of the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid SUV is technology. This compact crossover is meant to be geared toward fuel potency and innovative functions that are simple and fun to use. Anyone who likes technological development can appreciate the styles that went into the Ford Escape Hybrid SUV.

 

As one would expect with any hybrid, the Ford Escape Hybrid SUVserves you well at the pump. It reaches 34r town miles per gallon and 31 highway miles per gallon. The Escape line is slated to be utterly redesigned for 2013, and therefore there are some performance problems. However, for top tech comfort and elegance there's plenty to be appreciated.

The Ford Escape Hybrid SUV can parallel park for you. The technology scans the obtainable space and automatically can choose one with the right area necessities. the motive force want solely to fret regarding controlling the gas pedal and also the brake pedal. the remainder is finished by the automated system that controls the steering. this is often one in all the massive selling points of the Ford Escape Hybrid SUV.

The general safety options embrace the steadiness management, antilock brakes, traction management, facet curtain airbags and front seat front and facet airbags. sadly, one in all the damaging results of take a look at drives has proven to be the braking. The rear brakes are drum rather than disc, creating it tough to own a brief stopping distance.

The Ford Escape Hybrid SUV is offered within the base model and also the restricted model. whereas the bottom model may be a very little light-weight in customary options, the hybrid base model may be a very little a lot of appealing. twin zone climate management and also the Sync feature come back customary, moreover as sixteen in. alloy wheels, power accessories, blind spot mirror, cruise management, MyKey parental controls, and a four speaker sound system as well as a CD player and with an audio jack. The Ford Escape Hybrid SUV restricted adds many a lot of options like chrome accents for the outside, rear parking assist, sunroof, review camera, multicolor ambient lighting, heated front seats, and leather.

The Sync system is maybe one in all the a lot of fascinating functions on the Ford Escape Hybrid SUV. this technique offers you the power to manage functions through voice recognition. For powering all of these technological options, the 2.5 liter four cylinder engine is let alone a battery system that works in conjunction with the gasoline engine. Their total effort equals 177 horsepower.

There is restricted cargo area, measuring out to twenty-eight cubic feet for the hybrid model. this is often one cubic foot but the all gasoline model. The hybrid is additionally cursed with a rear passenger seat that's a take a look at of endurance and can to induce out for expanded cargo space.

The hybrid handles well, though there's a good expectation for far better, even fun, handling when the 2013 model is released. the general public has been promised an overhaul which will improve all trim levels, and provide a number of the purposeful options that almost all SUVs provide already. Telescoping steering columns and totally adjustable steering wheel is simply as hoped for as a slide and stow rear row of seats for maximizing cargo area. the price continues to be sensible, though several customers are waiting to visualize what the 2013 model really delivers on before creating a shopping for call.

Ford Explorer SUV

 

The 2012 Ford Explorer SUV ranks a great deal like most of the sooner Expos in line. With a couple of changes to the body over the years, and an identical upgrading in technology, the 2012 Ford Explorer SUV may be a high choose for a full size crossover SUV. whereas once a truck bed SUV, the typical family began turning into additional involved regarding hauling giant families, youngsters with friends to ballet, and also the whole Pee Wee soccer team. the planning was modified to a automobile primarily based SUV.

The automobile framing qualifies it for a crossover however truly it's still the Ford Explorer SUV at heart. The optional turbo boost engine engages sort of a typical four cylinder whereas operating at the powerful level of the V6. With the promised energy savings it's undoubtedly well worth the upgrade. Combined with the overhauled chassis and also the new automobile primarily based framing, the ride is smoother and calmer, creating it ever additional pleasurable to be behind the wheel.

Of course, the reduction in chassis size and strength so as to produce the automobile like expertise implies that the towing capability that the Ford Explorer SUV has perpetually been known for is not any longer viable. The new towing capability maxes out around 5000 pounds. The EcoBoost engine doesn't have a list for its towing capability.

Another new feature the 2012 Ford Explorer SUV offers is that the enhanced safety feature for smaller passengers. The second row of seats incorporates an inflatable airbag seatbelt. The seven passenger seating arrangement has primarily confined these new safety options to the second row of seats solely, making a brand new risk for the business.

The interior is together would expect. Refined and stylish however not over the highest. The Ford Explorer SUV may be a statement of worth. the sole consistent criticism concerning the Expo's interior is that the Ford MyTouch interface, that isn't simple to use. It needs uncomfortable hand positions and problem deciphering the icons and text.

The Ford Explorer SUV comes with a number of ordinary equipment. you will find the 17 inch alloy wheels, six approach power driver's seat, roof rails, cruise management, privacy glass, MyFord advanced trip pc, integrated blind spot mirrors, and 6 speaker CD player sound system with an auxiliary jack to be offered on all models. Sync, the voice activated electronic management system, doesn't come back customary till the XLT model.

The standard engine for the Ford Explorer SUV may be a 3.5 liter V6 that seems 290 HP and 255 pounds of torque. Front wheel drive and also the customary six speed automatic transmission is upgraded to the all wheel drive EcoBoost model. Four wheel drive comes as an optional package, though the low vary gearing is not any longer on the market.

With 80 cubic feet of cargo area, innovative electronics, and purposeful seating. The seventeen town miles per gallon and 25 highway miles per gallon are an improvement upon previous models and match midrange into the pack. Overall, the Expo continues to be a good worth, offers nice family oriented transportation and entertainment, and may be seen once more as a contemporary day classic.

2012 Detroit Auto Show: 2013 Ford Fusion

I gotta say, I love the Maserati front end, and if their claims are 'real world' worthy....
In a press conference that clearly targeted the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, Ford said consumers “expect more” than what its Japanese rivals have been offering and have, in response, developed the all new 2013 Fusion sedan. The car was unveiled today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

With a fresh new design, an impressive interior and plenty of technology, the Fusions big boast is its fuel economy, which global product development boss Derrick Kuzak calls “game changing.” Hardly an empty remark, the Fusion will get 26 mpg city and 37 mpg highway with a new EcoBoost 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. (Both an entry level 170-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder and a 237-hp EcoBoost 2.0-liter will be offered as well).

Taking a step up in fuel economy is the new hybrid model, which bests even the new Camry Hybrid by a significant margin with 44 mpg city and 47 mpg highway. Ford even showed off what it calls the Fusion Energi, a plug-in hybrid, with an incredible 100 mpge rating – 8 more than even the Volt.

Source;
http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2012/01/2013-ford-fusion-revealed-with-game-changing-fuel-economy-2012-detroit-auto-show.html

Ford Ecosport Revealed for New Delhi

Looks like this is one for India only. Not sure what to think about this one....

Ford has released the new EcoSport prior to its public unveiling at the New Delhi Auto Expo tomorrow. Initially targeted to emerging markets, the EcoSport will eventually launch globally.

The Ford EcoSport looks substantial despite its compact dimensions. It features high ground clearance and integrated lower body cladding for that rugged look. The EcoSport is defined as being targeted to consumers who want a sporty and casual car that stands out, but in an intelligent and sustainable way.

The compact SUV features a turbocharged 1.0-liter Ecoboost engine with 120 PS (118 hp / 88 kW) and 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) available from 1,300-4,500 rpm. The direct injection engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Ultimately, 1.0-liter Ecoboost engine will be made available in Ford models in China, Europe, North America and other regions.

The new EcoSport was developed in Ford's Development Center in Camaçari, Brazil. Previously, the EcoSport name was used on a crossover SUV version of the European derived Ford Fusion MPV in Latin America since 2003 and served as the first affordable SUV in the region. It went on to sell 700,000 vehicles in nine years.

This new Fiesta based B-platform SUV, which is the second of ten new models to be spawned from this platform by mid-decade, will eventually be sold in 100 markets worldwide. Ford projects the new B-platform family of vehicles will represent more than 2 million units of annual production as compact cars continue to drive global growth.

The EcoSport will be produced at plants in Brazil, India, and other markets to be announced at a later time.

Source;
http://www.worldcarfans.com/112010439431/ford-ecosport-compact-suv-revealed---debut-in-new-delhi

Sporty Car - Ford Fiesta ST

The new automotive style known as as Fiesta ST from Ford automotivemaker is formed to gift a high – performance car. This Ford Fiesta ST is supplied with a a 180 hp 1.6 liter EcoBoost turbocharged 4-cylinder and has robust exterior style taking inspiration from Ford Fiesta RS WRC.

The automotive appearance trendy and futuristic with the sporty and muscular exterior look combined with high – performance powertrain. The engine of Ford Fiesta ST is combined with Twin-independent Variable Camshaft Timing, therefore the automotive may result a 180 hp and 240 Nm of torque. The engine is additionally collaborated with 6 – speed manual transmission to create the Fiesta ST will reach its sprint simply in 7 second in 0 – 100 km / h and makes its prime speed in 220 km / h.

Some sporty components are placed to the outside therefore the automotive appearance sporty and magnificence. Among the sporty components are awesome trapezoidal grilles, imposing rear diffuser and additionally honeycomb mesh style.

Ford Model T

October was 1.1908, almost a month ago by William Howard Taft defeated William Jennings Bryan for the presidency in the United States, Ford Motor Company introduced a device that historians, who many see as the most important car of all time - 1908-1927 Ford Model T.

Ford Model T

Henry Ford Model T only surprising, because Henry has the alphabet from A to D, but a lot of letters have been omitted from the road. It's just built like a car goes first, but within a few months a number of other body styles adds to the line. Strictly commercial vehicles, Ford had no beauty prize, and won the competition without speed.

Ford Model T

But for a 22 HP four-cylinder cars carry 1200 pounds at a maximum speed of 35-40 km per hour, which is enough for dirt roads most of the time. Cooling was a primitive method of thermo-siphon system with splash lubrication. Fuel tank located under the front seat is the fuel in the engine is powered by gravity. Meanwhile, the driver moved to a two-speed planetary gearbox with pedals. The car did not have removable wheels at first, but in 1919, are available for an extra $ 25.

 Ford Model T

 

 Ford Model T

 

 Ford Model T

 

 Ford Model T

 

 Ford Model T

2011 Ford Falcon

The 2011 Ford Falcon GT will be most effective in his section. About the 2011 Ford Falcon GT could be the most powerful production car in history to reach Australia. Technically, the Falcon GT is not just a Ford Performance Vehicles Ford developers simply (FPV). In the face wash product in mid-2011 generation Ford Falcon GT has reduced the same exact pattern, because true rear wheel drive FPV GT, which created its first appearance in 2008.
 

2011 Ford Falcon

2011 Ford Falcon GT is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine, 450 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque produced. 2011 Ford Falcon GT is available with two transmission options provide a ZF 6HP25 6-speed automatic transmission with seven-disc clutch and planetary gears September 4. 2011 Ford Falcon GT is capable of 0-60 in 4.9 companies, breaking the quarter in about 13 seconds.
 

2011 Ford Falcon

2011 Ford Falcon GT is great for everyday driving, but maybe just a little, soft and for each person planning a road rage assault of the canyon. For street use, the brakes are adequate, although optional Brembo upgrade, normal brake calipers with six pistons switches and piston elements 4 each is a worthwhile investment for something more.

2011 Ford Falcon

 2011 Ford Falcon

 

 2011 Ford Falcon

 

 2011 Ford Falcon

 2011 Ford Falcon

 

2011 Ford Falcon

2012 Ford Escape Review

Since its introduction, the Ford Escape has one of the best-selling small SUV in the United States. Considering the number of vehicles in this segment (founded many of them even before the publication of the flight) are available, this may surprise a little. "But Ford has a knack for designing sharp SUV, aimed at a broad spectrum of buyers.

 2012 Ford Escape

To escape with, Ford is able to match the style and ability to drive the four wheels of a traditional SUV with the three-dimensional characteristics, practicality and driving a midsize car. For the city dweller needs something comfortable, versatile ride, fun and able to shed some light off-road or tow, which fit perfectly. Of course, the flight of lower prices has undoubtedly improves its appeal.

 2012 Ford Escape

Despite these attributes apply even today, you can not deny that the basic design of the Ford Escape is always a little "old, with a significant refresh for the year 2008. The interior has received significant improvements particularly with better materials and a stylish appearance . In any case, the leak is at a disadvantage for the new compact SUV that is smarter and more rewarding driving experience.

Actual Ford Escape

The Ford Escape is a compact four-door SUV. Thanks to its light four-wheel independent suspension and unibody construction, is better suited for off-road driving. The basic structure was solved with the help of the Mazda Tribute, which is very similar to the leak has been developed. The Mercury Mountaineer is nearly identical to the flight and differs mainly on a few different features and details of interior and exterior design.

 2012 Ford Escape

The exhaust is available in three trim levels: XLS, XLT and Limited. Standard equipment on the XLS includes 16-inch wheels, alloy wheels, accessories for power, cruise control, climate control, stability control and ABS brakes. The XLT adds automatic headlights, auto-dimming interior mirror and driver's seat. The list of features of the XLT adds to the limited flight leather upholstery, heated front seats and Ford Sync. The main options, depending on the surface are dual-zone climate control, rear parking sensors, sunroof quality stereo, a navigation system and an automatic parking system in parallel.

 2012 Ford Escape

All levels of hardware, have the front-or all-wheel drive. All but the Limited comes with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 171 hp. A five-speed manual transmission (XLS only) or a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard on Limited and optional on the XLT is a 240-hp 3.0-liter V6. A six-speed automatic transmission with the V6 is lonely. A special version of the tracking is the Escape Hybrid, a gasoline / electric provides the best fuel efficiency of an SUV.

 2012 Ford Escape

A distinction is made in reviews, we found a flight through the collection of high-tech performance and full of life. The disadvantages are poor performance brakes, the rear seats a sometimes awkward and a little dated "feel compared to some of its newer competitors. But the latest Ford Escape worth a visit for those interested in is a small, crossover SUV.

Interior Ford Escape 2012.

 2012 Ford Escape

2012 Ford Escape

2012 Ford Escape

2012 Ford Escape

Ford Escape Models

The latest Ford Escape has redesigned for 2008, although at the time were limited changes to the interior and exterior decoration. The body in the last Ford design themes seen on the edge and shipping. The new look of the cabin was more modern than before, with more ergonomic controls and attractive. The '08 model nor the 153-hp four-cylinder 200-hp V6 engine, four-speed automatic transmission with both. The 171-hp four-cylinder and V6 with 240 hp and the subsequent transfer began in 2009. Some new features have, including the service area of ​​the parallel system for the year 2010 has been recorded.

 2012 Ford Escape

The Ford Escape was introduced in 2001, and its exterior and interior design is essentially unchanged from '07. The trim was first in XLS, XLT and XLT Sport, which connected the limited leather cover for a few years later. Ford Escapes have been equipped with a database engine and not anemic - four 2.0-liter 130 hp make it - until '05, when it by a 2.3-liter four-cylinder that made 153 hp was replaced. This first generation of escape also offers an optional V6 engine that makes 200 hp. Despite the four-cylinder has a five-speed manual transmission, most had an optional four-speed automatic that is standard on the V6 was.

 2012 Ford Escape

Considering how many of these leaks have been sold, buyers should have plenty of opportunities to be challenging and are used to a model that suits them. Escape from the first year was overshadowed by the numerous recall notices. Although it is likely to resolve at this point, with a 2002 or newer model will probably be a good idea. Potential buyers of the first generation of escape should be noted that the interior materials of poor quality, cheap plastic, are difficult to be everywhere.

 2012 Ford Escape

 

2012 Ford Escape

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302

For those who have more disposable income and less of a social conscience, Ford has something to offer in the way of the Mustang. Hell, it also provides the base model V6 307 horsepower and is capable of 30 mpg on the highway, but in reality we are here - the Mustang V6 is suffering crippling stigma, a girl car. Like the Mazda MX-5, can in competition, as long as you like, but most people buy with an XY chromosome is not logical.

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302

I was lucky, the Ford Shelby GT500 last year, the top dog, 550 hp supercharged V8 with Mustang, Brembo brakes and a bright red paint with white racing stripes. It was great, and I said the last great muscle car. I was wrong. Ford had something up his sleeve.
While the big dogs of journalism automotive learned a long time to spend with the main circuits variables (Laguna Seca), which was limited to one day - less than 24 hours in the real world - and decided to eat in a series of five hours and unit of energy drinks as much as possible before the car had to be returned.

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302

The Mustang Boss 302 is actually up to 110 hp and 130 lb-ft of torque Shelby, the nature of their 5.0L V8, only 440 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque (5.0 V8 engine model uses a similar movement, but with different internal share is limited to 412 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque). For many geeks with little experience behind the wheel of the gap between the head and Shelby is scared, but in the real world, the drive that is 302.
The difference in weight between the two is not sharp, with the head, weighing 189 pounds less than the Shelby, but the way in which state power-down the head much more attractive, with its gentle rise and constant 7500 rpm redline with an array of NASCAR as a glorious soundtrack of the cabin (and some friends assured me, a deafening noise from the outside).

Shelby with 550 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque load, the effort, in fact, the force put on the ground - the throttle in third, and cash back and forth like a spring break revelers drunk, as wheel drive encryption. With the boss, not a little drama on the back is short for bad rapid acceleration from 3.73 to 60 mph, while the optional limited slip differential that provides traction. The Boss 302 is a 6-speed manual transmission is easy to handle, even better than the Shelby is that it requires much effort.

Interior stripped and not in a good way.

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302

 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302

 

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302

When the Shelby does not prevail in the interior, where a complete set of features such as a touch screen navigation system Ford SYNC with a Shaker 1000 audio system, leather interior and black plastic bean receives less. The Boss 302 is very Spartan, who can live, but may be hateful to those who can actually afford this car. The optional Recaro seats deserve a mention for the comfortable and extremely useful, and come with holes for the straps, although appearing in a rear seat is not fixed, like a bad idea. This is a $ 1,995 option, and is combined with a limited slip differential come. This is not a bad price, but in a vehicle, an LSD like this should be the norm.

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302

The stereo is a real piece of shit that does not fit the base of the party, and let's be honest here - a large part of the whole track experience muscle car-loud while driving on the main road. Ford to kill him, sort of halfway in a car that made over $ 40,000 it cost?
The exterior is the exact opposite of the closing of the cabin. Until there is a new grille and fascia with integrated separator. On the back are two huge rear exhaust. In addition to receiving the Boss GT 302 is covered with the top leadership and a rear wing and if he is paired with custom graphics and wheels 100 percent of the dishwasher door, that is.A track car you can live with.

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302

Details aside, the boss is incredibly easy to live in everyday situations. The trunk is quite roomy, the ride quality is excellent, but survived the worst of the patches (which actually became the collapse adjustable shocks are the total stiffness), the seats are comfortable and the clutch is easy to use. Driving in urban areas in rush hour traffic exhausts us no more than driving a family sedan, though its physical weight and less than optimum visibility to the rear lane changes and developed a control bit more complicated than they are in a Taurus.

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302

Another interesting feature if you want your boss to do every day driving, passenger airbag configuration, with Comfort, Normal and Sport mode, support for different environments. We could not see to want to go with a cruise for two on the road, but each with a boss to stick it in the sport and keep it that way.

 

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302

Have Given the publicity surrounding all muscle cars, the expectations of management is the key to a car like the 302 head debuted the new Camaro could muster, with all praises and hallelujahs to the motoring press, but proved a failure, while the Challenger was a good, but the vehicle dynamically wrong. The Boss 302 can deliver on its promises, a more focused, refined than the Mustang "weekend toy" typical state, higher performance cars (not to mention the issues of track-day special) are generally exceeded .

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302

It is unfortunate that the time spent with the boss was so limited, not what time of the alleged use of the capacity of the box, 4-piston Brembo brakes (the stop is very good for the panic of three digits to dig working hours) and the possibility that the wind out of the 5.0L V8 to the wide range that are exploring all 7500 rpm We look forward to a good weekend trip with the boss, but now it's safe to say that the head of the real deal, the peak of the muscle car which can also give the reason foreign competitors awake at night.

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302